2 Peter 3:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
William MacDonald
Willie Mullan
Aaron Hurst
Gareth Evans
Peter Brandon
E.A. Adeboye
A.W. TozerSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This second epistle - In order to guard them against the seductions of false teachers, he calls to their remembrance the doctrine of the ancient prophets, and the commands or instructions of the apostles, all founded on the same basis. He possibly refers to the prophecies of Enoch, as mentioned by Jude, Jde 1:14, Jde 1:15; of David, Psa 1:1, etc.; and of Daniel, Dan 12:2, relative to the coming of our Lord to judgment: and he brings in the instructions of the apostles of Christ, by which they were directed how to prepare to meet their God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you,.... This is a transition to another part of the epistle; for the apostle having largely described false teachers, the secret enemies of the Christian religion under a profession of it, passes on to take notice of the more open adversaries and profane scoffers of it; and from their ridicule of the doctrine of Christ's second coming, he proceeds to treat of that, and of the destruction of the world, and the future happiness of the saints: he calls this epistle his "second epistle", because he had written another before to the same persons; and that the author of this epistle was an apostle, is evident from Pe2 3:2; and which, compared with Pe2 1:18 shows him to be the Apostle Peter, whose name it bears, and who was an eyewitness to the transfiguration of Christ on the mount, Mat 17:1, he addresses these saints here, as also in Pe2 3:8, under the character of "beloved"; because they were the beloved of God, being chosen by him according to his foreknowledge, and regenerated by him, according to his abundant mercy; and were openly his people, and had obtained mercy from him, and like precious faith with the apostles; and were also the beloved of Christ, being redeemed by him, not with gold and silver, but with his precious blood; for whom he suffered, and who were partakers of his sufferings, and the benefits arising from them, and who had all things given them by him, pertaining to life and godliness, and exceeding great and precious promises; and were likewise beloved by the apostle, though strangers, and not merely as Jews, or because they were his countrymen, but because they were the elect of God, the redeemed of Christ, and who were sanctified by the Spirit, and had the same kind of faith he himself had. The Syriac and Arabic versions read, "my beloved"; and the Ethiopic version, "my brethren": his end in writing both this and the former epistle follows; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance; that this was his view both in this and the former epistle, appears from Pe1 1:13; he calls their minds pure; not that they were so naturally, for the minds and consciences of men are universally defiled with sin; nor are the minds of all men pure who seem to be so in their own eyes, or appear so to others; nor can any man, by his own power or works, make himself pure from sin; only the blood of Christ purges and cleanses from it; and a pure mind is a mind sprinkled with that blood, and which receives the truth as it is in Jesus, in the power and purity of it, and that holds the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. Some versions, as the Vulgate Latin and Arabic, render the word "sincere", as it is in Phi 1:10; and may design the sincerity of their hearts in the worship of God, in the doctrines of Christ, and to one another, and of the grace of the Spirit of God in them; as that their faith was unfeigned, their hope without hypocrisy, and their love without dissimulation, and their repentance real and genuine; but yet they needed to be stirred up by way of remembrance, both of the truth of the Gospel, and the duties of religion; for saints are apt to be forgetful of the word, both of its doctrines and its exhortations; and it is the business of the ministers of the word to put them in mind of them, either by preaching or by writing; and which shows the necessity and usefulness of the standing ministry of the Gospel: the particulars he put them in mind of next follow.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
That the apostle might the better reach his end in writing this epistle, which is to make them steady and constant in a fiducial and practical remembrance of the doctrine of the gospel, he, 1. Expresses his special affection and tenderness for them, by calling them beloved, hereby evidencing that he added to godliness brotherly-kindness, as he had (Pe2 1:17) exhorted them to do. Ministers must be examples of love and affection, as well as life and conversation. 2. He evinces a sincere love to them, and hearty concern for them, by writing the same thing to them, though in other words. It being safe for them, it shall not be grievous to him to write upon the same subject, and pursue the same design, by those methods which are most likely to succeed. 3. The better to recommend the matter, he tells them that what he would have them to remember are, (1.) The words spoken by the holy prophets, who were divinely inspired, both enlightened and sanctified by the Holy Ghost; and, seeing these persons' minds were purified by the sanctifying operation of the same Spirit, they were the better disposed to receive and retain what came from God by the holy prophets. (2.) The commandments of the apostles of the Lord and Saviour; and therefore the disciples and servants of Christ ought to regard what those who are sent by him have declared unto them to be the will of their Lord. What God has spoken by the prophets of the Old Testament, and Christ has commanded by the apostles of the New, cannot but demand and deserve to be frequently remembered; and those who meditate on these things will feel the quickening virtues thereof. It is by these things the pure minds of Christians are to be stirred up, that they may be active and lively in the work of holiness, and zealous and unwearied in the way to heaven.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-13 Peter shifts from denunciation of false teachers to exhortation of believers. The false teachers’ skepticism about Christ’s return required clear teaching. Christians need to hold onto the apostolic message about the day of judgment and live godly lives in anticipation of that day. 3:1 This is my second letter to you: The previous letter was probably 1 Peter.
2 Peter 3:1
The Coming Judgment
1Beloved, this is now my second letter to you. Both of them are reminders to stir you to wholesome thinking2by recalling what was foretold by the holy prophets and commanded by our Lord and Savior through your apostles.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Bristol Conference 1964 (Apostasy) - Part 6
By William MacDonald2.5K53:31Apostasy2PE 3:1In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of only hearing liberal and modernist viewpoints in chapel services. He questions why there are no fundamentalist or evangelical speakers. The speaker then moves on to discuss the warning in the scripture about man's rejection of the true God and descent into immorality. He also mentions the opposition to evolution and the reliance on palatable dating methods. The sermon concludes by discussing the coming again of the Lord Jesus, emphasizing that it is a period of time with a beginning, course, manifestation, and climax.
(Happenings Ahead) Denials of the Last Days
By Willie Mullan1.6K1:13:27Last Days2PE 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God in the last days. He encourages the listeners to learn and rely on the Bible, as it is all they need. The preacher urges them to preach the word in all situations, whether in meetings, funerals, or weddings. He warns that in the last days, some will depart from the faith, and therefore, it is crucial to remember and be mindful of the words spoken by the Holy Prophets and the commandments of the apostles. The preacher combines the Old Testament and the New Testament, emphasizing the need to remember and follow both.
The End of the World
By Aaron Hurst1.4K1:15:03End Times2PE 3:1In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about his brother's efforts to reach out to his neighbor with the love of God. The neighbor was known for his drinking and smoking habits. The speaker then reads verses from the Bible, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for the end times and the return of Jesus Christ. He highlights the temporary nature of the world and urges listeners to live in anticipation of Christ's return by watching and praying.
Till He Come
By Gareth Evans55538:07Second Coming2PE 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in the near return of Jesus Christ. He quotes various evangelists and prophets who have expressed their conviction in the imminent appearance of the Lord. The preacher challenges the audience to consider how their lives would change if they knew Jesus was coming tomorrow. He urges them to be a people who are awake, active, and focused on Jesus, rather than being apathetic or distracted by worldly pursuits. The sermon concludes with the reminder that the greatest hope for Christians is the second coming of Christ and the assurance of forgiveness and salvation through Him.
The Will of God and the Will of Man
By Peter Brandon546:26The Will of GodRejection of Christ2PE 3:1Peter Brandon emphasizes the contrast between the will of God and the will of man, illustrating God's patience and passionate desire for humanity's salvation, as seen in Jesus' lament over Jerusalem. He warns against the dangers of rejecting God's call, highlighting the consequences of desolation for those who turn away from His love. Brandon urges listeners to recognize the urgency of accepting Christ, as God's will is not only to save but to bless and protect His children. He passionately conveys that God longs for a relationship with each individual, calling them by name and inviting them to come to Him. The sermon serves as a loving reminder of the importance of responding to God's persistent call to repentance and faith.
Settle It Before Sleeping
By E.A. Adeboye02PE 3:1E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of maintaining a God-conscious life, contrasting the fear of God in biblical times with the lack of conscience in many professing believers today. He warns against deadening one's conscience by indulging in sin without remorse, leading to a dangerous state of spiritual numbness. Adeboye urges Christians to regularly examine themselves, confess sins, and keep their hearts pure in anticipation of the unexpected return of the King.
Keeping Fresh
By A.W. Tozer0DEU 4:21JHN 14:26ACT 20:252CO 5:12TI 1:52TI 4:62PE 1:142PE 3:1The preacher delves into the concept of 'hupomnesis,' which means to actively remind or be passively reminded of something, often prompted by another. This act of remembering is crucial in the Christian faith, as it stirs believers to action and keeps them stable in their walk with God. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in bringing to remembrance God's Word, as seen in John 14:26. The sermon emphasizes the importance of continually stirring up one's mind with the truths of Scripture, as exemplified in 2 Timothy 1:5 and 2 Peter 3:1.
Epistle 283
By George Fox0FaithfulnessEncouragementMAT 6:20EPH 6:11EPH 6:131TH 1:42TI 1:6HEB 2:71PE 1:42PE 3:1George Fox emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and wearing the whole armor of God to withstand trials and tribulations. He encourages believers to maintain their public testimonies and support one another, especially during difficult times, reminding them to keep their focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly concerns. Fox expresses his desire for all to remain steadfast and faithful to the truth, despite personal struggles and weaknesses. He urges Friends to visit and encourage each other, ensuring that no one falters in their faith. His heartfelt message is a call to unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Of Godly Sincerity.
By John Gill0Integrity in FaithSincerityPSA 51:6MAT 5:8JHN 3:191CO 5:82CO 1:12PHP 1:101PE 2:22PE 3:1John Gill emphasizes the significance of godly sincerity, contrasting it with hypocrisy, which is detestable to God. He explains that true sincerity is a grace bestowed by God, characterized by purity and integrity in one's heart, thoughts, and actions. Gill illustrates that sincere individuals are those who possess a true heart, are sound in faith, and worship God in spirit and truth. He encourages believers to seek this grace from God, as it leads to spiritual joy, blessings, and protection. Ultimately, sincerity is essential for a genuine relationship with God and reflects one's true character.
The Christian's Assurance
By A.W. Pink0Assurance in TrialsGod's SovereigntyGEN 42:36PSA 18:16ISA 26:3ISA 40:17ISA 57:15ROM 8:281CO 15:2EPH 1:112TI 1:92PE 3:1A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound assurance found in Romans 8:28, illustrating how God orchestrates all circumstances for the good of those who love Him. He reassures believers that despite trials and adversities, faith recognizes God's sovereign control and purpose in every situation. Pink highlights that true Christians, marked by their love for God, can trust that even the most challenging experiences contribute to their ultimate good. He encourages believers to reflect on their calling and the divine purpose behind their love for God, which is rooted in His grace. Ultimately, Pink assures that all things, even those that seem contrary, work together for the benefit of God's children, leading them toward eternal glory.
2 Peter 3:1
By John Gill0The Second Coming of ChristLiving in Expectation2PE 3:1John Gill emphasizes the purpose of Peter's second epistle, which is to remind believers of the Gospel's doctrines and the certainty of Christ's return despite the scoffers' doubts. He warns that in the last days, there will be those who mock the promise of Christ's coming, but reassures the faithful that God's timing is not like human timing, as He is patient and desires all to come to repentance. Gill highlights the impending judgment and the need for believers to live holy lives in anticipation of the new heavens and earth promised by God. The sermon concludes with a call for vigilance against false teachings and a commitment to grow in grace and knowledge of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This second epistle - In order to guard them against the seductions of false teachers, he calls to their remembrance the doctrine of the ancient prophets, and the commands or instructions of the apostles, all founded on the same basis. He possibly refers to the prophecies of Enoch, as mentioned by Jude, Jde 1:14, Jde 1:15; of David, Psa 1:1, etc.; and of Daniel, Dan 12:2, relative to the coming of our Lord to judgment: and he brings in the instructions of the apostles of Christ, by which they were directed how to prepare to meet their God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you,.... This is a transition to another part of the epistle; for the apostle having largely described false teachers, the secret enemies of the Christian religion under a profession of it, passes on to take notice of the more open adversaries and profane scoffers of it; and from their ridicule of the doctrine of Christ's second coming, he proceeds to treat of that, and of the destruction of the world, and the future happiness of the saints: he calls this epistle his "second epistle", because he had written another before to the same persons; and that the author of this epistle was an apostle, is evident from Pe2 3:2; and which, compared with Pe2 1:18 shows him to be the Apostle Peter, whose name it bears, and who was an eyewitness to the transfiguration of Christ on the mount, Mat 17:1, he addresses these saints here, as also in Pe2 3:8, under the character of "beloved"; because they were the beloved of God, being chosen by him according to his foreknowledge, and regenerated by him, according to his abundant mercy; and were openly his people, and had obtained mercy from him, and like precious faith with the apostles; and were also the beloved of Christ, being redeemed by him, not with gold and silver, but with his precious blood; for whom he suffered, and who were partakers of his sufferings, and the benefits arising from them, and who had all things given them by him, pertaining to life and godliness, and exceeding great and precious promises; and were likewise beloved by the apostle, though strangers, and not merely as Jews, or because they were his countrymen, but because they were the elect of God, the redeemed of Christ, and who were sanctified by the Spirit, and had the same kind of faith he himself had. The Syriac and Arabic versions read, "my beloved"; and the Ethiopic version, "my brethren": his end in writing both this and the former epistle follows; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance; that this was his view both in this and the former epistle, appears from Pe1 1:13; he calls their minds pure; not that they were so naturally, for the minds and consciences of men are universally defiled with sin; nor are the minds of all men pure who seem to be so in their own eyes, or appear so to others; nor can any man, by his own power or works, make himself pure from sin; only the blood of Christ purges and cleanses from it; and a pure mind is a mind sprinkled with that blood, and which receives the truth as it is in Jesus, in the power and purity of it, and that holds the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. Some versions, as the Vulgate Latin and Arabic, render the word "sincere", as it is in Phi 1:10; and may design the sincerity of their hearts in the worship of God, in the doctrines of Christ, and to one another, and of the grace of the Spirit of God in them; as that their faith was unfeigned, their hope without hypocrisy, and their love without dissimulation, and their repentance real and genuine; but yet they needed to be stirred up by way of remembrance, both of the truth of the Gospel, and the duties of religion; for saints are apt to be forgetful of the word, both of its doctrines and its exhortations; and it is the business of the ministers of the word to put them in mind of them, either by preaching or by writing; and which shows the necessity and usefulness of the standing ministry of the Gospel: the particulars he put them in mind of next follow.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
That the apostle might the better reach his end in writing this epistle, which is to make them steady and constant in a fiducial and practical remembrance of the doctrine of the gospel, he, 1. Expresses his special affection and tenderness for them, by calling them beloved, hereby evidencing that he added to godliness brotherly-kindness, as he had (Pe2 1:17) exhorted them to do. Ministers must be examples of love and affection, as well as life and conversation. 2. He evinces a sincere love to them, and hearty concern for them, by writing the same thing to them, though in other words. It being safe for them, it shall not be grievous to him to write upon the same subject, and pursue the same design, by those methods which are most likely to succeed. 3. The better to recommend the matter, he tells them that what he would have them to remember are, (1.) The words spoken by the holy prophets, who were divinely inspired, both enlightened and sanctified by the Holy Ghost; and, seeing these persons' minds were purified by the sanctifying operation of the same Spirit, they were the better disposed to receive and retain what came from God by the holy prophets. (2.) The commandments of the apostles of the Lord and Saviour; and therefore the disciples and servants of Christ ought to regard what those who are sent by him have declared unto them to be the will of their Lord. What God has spoken by the prophets of the Old Testament, and Christ has commanded by the apostles of the New, cannot but demand and deserve to be frequently remembered; and those who meditate on these things will feel the quickening virtues thereof. It is by these things the pure minds of Christians are to be stirred up, that they may be active and lively in the work of holiness, and zealous and unwearied in the way to heaven.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:1-13 Peter shifts from denunciation of false teachers to exhortation of believers. The false teachers’ skepticism about Christ’s return required clear teaching. Christians need to hold onto the apostolic message about the day of judgment and live godly lives in anticipation of that day. 3:1 This is my second letter to you: The previous letter was probably 1 Peter.